Tiki Tour of North Shore

The weather was fairly good so we decided to take a tour of the bays along the Pacific Ocean north of Kerikeri. First stop was Mataurin Bay. Of course I had to pick up shells, including a 4” scallop, a limpet, and both sides of a clam. No sea glass. 

Next stop was Kaeo Bay. Not many shells, but a family did bring their lambs to the beach for an outing. Both sheep had been abandoned by their mothers for some reason, so they were being raised until they can be returned to the farmer. A sweet pet for a while, but no need for lamb sitters if they went on vacation.


Our third stop was Tauranga Bay. No shells, some rocks, a dead shark. Most importantly, this area is a protected nesting site for variable oystercatchers and red-breasted dotterels. We saw both along the shore. I tried peering into the roped off grass area with my binoculars, but I couldn’t see any nests. May be a bit too early. 

This stop was also a good site for Keith to fill his buckets with fresh seaweed which gave the car a certain seaside aroma. Betsy and I had picked some freesias but their sweetness couldn’t compete. At least we were heading towards home.

Lunch was at the Mad Hatter’s Tea Garden. I ordered an American coffee with my scrambled eggs, toast, and large side salad. This was the first time I’d been offered the opportunity to add my own hot water to my espresso.

 


Granted opted for the open-faced lamb burger which came with a lot of lettuce, onions, and a fried egg on top. Betsy and Keith shared potato wedges and a “sweet” bagel, which meant it came with cream cheese and jam. Amidst all the whimsical Alice in Wonderland decorations, there was an aquarium with an axolotl.

We drove home in the seaweed-enhanced car.  Keith will add it to his compost pile for extra nutrients. I think I may bring one of our large plastic bins with a top and fill it the next time we go to Fort Lauderdale or the Keys, There is always lots of fresh seaweed at the shoreline. Plus we could put it in the back of the truck so we wouldn’t have to smell it.

On the way home, I saw a swan lawn art made from an old tire. I may need to make one for my yard.


After our big lunches, dinner was catch as catch can.

Steps Today: 4,481

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